The Pasifiki Trade Fair 2007 was officially opened by the Minister for Labour, Commerce and Industries, Hon Lisiate 'Akolo at the Queen Salote Memorial Hall yesterday, October 18.

Tapu Panuve, the President of the Trade Fair Organising Committee, said that there are more locally made products on display this year in comparison to previous years. The participation of producers from Niuafo'ou and Niuatoputapu introduced more locally made products, and local carvers are also showcasing their products for the first time. There are also exhibitors this year from Samoa, Cook Islands and New Zealand.

In addition local businesses, Skips Joinery, EM Jones Ltd and others have developed a range of new products.

Tapu said that about half of the 89 booths at the trade fair display only local products.

"We have always encouraged the participation of local participants in the trade fair because this is an opportunity for them to display and market their products."

The trade fair also featured for the first time exhibitors from charitable organisations such as the Tongan Breast Cancer Society, the Tonga Red Cross, Nata a physical disability group, and the US Embassy, Suva.

Tapu said that this year's fair was scheduled to coincide with the 38th Pacific Leaders Forum Meeting, which ended on Wednesday October 17.